Glaucoma Research Foundation Board of Directors Approve New Strategic Plan

San Francisco, CA, September 6, 2013 - The Board of Directors of the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) recently announced the implementation of a new three-year Strategic Plan to advance its mission to prevent vision loss from glaucoma by investing in innovative research, education, and support with the ultimate goal of finding a cure.

“Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the world and everyone is at risk,” said Thomas M. Brunner, GRF President and CEO. “We remain deeply committed to speeding the cure, raising awareness, and providing education for patients and their caregivers. The celebration of our 35th anniversary this year presented an opportune time for the Board and staff to review and envision the Foundation’s next chapter.”

The six-month planning process resulted in an affirmation of GRF’s strategic direction adopted in 2007. Refined tactics and ongoing evaluation of results and program effectiveness are key components of the new strategic plan.

Andrew G. Iwach, MD, GRF Board Chairman remarked: “Our new plan and its six strategic imperatives provide an essential framework for action and will ensure the Foundation’s continued success and accomplishment. Glaucoma patients will ultimately benefit from the Plan’s focus on research and education.”

The following six strategic imperatives will drive GRF’s activities and investments over the next three years in order to move toward fulfilling its vision and mission:

1. Research

Drive research for improved therapies and ultimately a cure by investing in innovative research.

2. Education & Support

Empower glaucoma patients with information they need to prevent vision loss and improve quality of life.

3. Communication

Inform and engage constituents and the general public by communicating Glaucoma Research Foundation mission, programs, and results.

4. Philanthropy

Maximize the impact of philanthropic support to fulfill Glaucoma Research Foundation’s ambitious research goals, advance educational programs, and bring us closer to finding a cure for glaucoma.

5. Board Engagement

Develop Board membership to ensure a cadre of enthusiastic advocates who represent various constituencies impacted by glaucoma.

6. Evaluation

Strive to continuously improve the effectiveness of the Foundation's investments in research, education and support with metrics reported quarterly to the Board.

"Glaucoma Research Foundation remains focused and committed to forwarding innovative research and providing educational resources for patients,” said Dr. Iwach. “We are encouraged with our progress to date and eager to find new and better ways to diagnose and treat the disease, and ultimately find a cure.”

About Glaucoma Research Foundation

Founded in 1978 and headquartered in San Francisco, Glaucoma Research Foundation is America’s oldest and most experienced nonprofit dedicated solely to its mission: to prevent vision loss from glaucoma by investing in innovative research, education and support with the ultimate goal of finding a cure. Glaucoma Research Foundation has invested more than $40 million into research and education to prevent vision loss from glaucoma. More information is available at glaucoma.org/about. Contact: Andrew Jackson, Director of Communications, phone (415) 986-3162.